Summary
The area is located near the town of Mayer and spans across 3,000 acres of diverse terrain, including wetlands, grasslands, and forests.
One of the main reasons to visit Quigley Wildlife Area is to observe the diverse range of wildlife that inhabits the area. Visitors can spot a variety of bird species, including bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and great blue herons. Other animals that can be seen in the area include mule deer, javelina, and coyotes.
There are also several points of interest to see within the Quigley Wildlife Area, including the Pine Creek Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area also includes several picnic areas, fishing spots, and camping sites.
Interesting facts about the Quigley Wildlife Area include its history as a cattle ranch before being purchased by the Arizona Game and Fish Department in the 1980s. The area was then restored to its natural state to create a habitat for local wildlife.
The best time of year to visit Quigley Wildlife Area is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and wildlife activity is at its peak. Visitors should be aware that the area is closed to the public during the summer months due to fire danger.
Overall, Quigley Wildlife Area is a must-visit destination for those interested in Arizona's diverse wildlife and natural landscapes.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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